XChange3031: Rugged 3U VPX Ethernet Switch for Aerospace Systems

X-ES' XChange3031 is a rugged 3U VPX Ethernet switch designed for high-performance embedded networking in military, aerospace, and C4ISR systems with optional routing capabilities Ethernet Switch Boards and Hardware / Feature Article by Extreme Engineering Solutions (X-ES)

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The XChange3031 from developer Extreme Engineering Solutions (X-ES) is a rugged, conduction-cooled 3U VPX Ethernet switch built to support high-throughput embedded networking in military and aerospace systems.

Rugged 3U VPX Ethernet Switch for Aerospace Systems

XChange3031

Designed for use in C4ISR and related applications, it delivers non-blocking, full wire-speed performance and supports both Layer 2 switching and optional Layer 3 routing when paired with the XChange6300 Embedded Services Router running Cisco IOS-XE®.

Flexible Port Configuration for Embedded Systems

The switch offers a wide range of port options, including a 40GBASE-KR4 Ethernet interface that can be split into four 10GBASE-KR or four 1000BASE-X ports. It also features six 10GBASE-KR ports, configurable as 1000BASE-X, along with four 10GBASE-T ports and up to eight 1000BASE-T ports via the backplane. Additional configurations are supported through mezzanine options.

When integrated with the XChange6300, the system expands its connectivity further, supporting one 2500BASE-X port, two 1000BASE-X ports from J16, and up to two 1000BASE-T ports from J14. A serial port is also available via J16 and routed to P1.

Protocol Support & Management Features

The XChange3031 supports a broad range of IEEE and IETF standards, including VLAN tagging (802.1Q), link aggregation (LACP), multiple spanning tree protocols, port authentication (802.1x), mirroring, ACLs, IGMP, LLDP, and QoS. IPv4 and IPv6 support is included, along with jumbo frames up to 10 kB and IEEE 1588v2 transparent clocking for time-sensitive applications.

xchange3031

Network management is available through CLI or SNMP, with SSH support for secure remote access. A 4 MB packet buffer allows for efficient handling of large data volumes, improving overall performance in bandwidth-intensive environments.

Designed for Harsh Operating Conditions

Conforming to the 3U VPX form factor, the XChange3031 meets X-ES Ruggedization Level 5 and complies with VITA 48 REDI standards. It is available in 0.8 in. or 1.0 in. pitch and supports optional compliance with VITA 48.2 Type 1 Two-Level Maintenance. An optional XMC site is available for mezzanine expansion.

The module supports VITA 46.11 Tier 1 and Tier 2 IPMC for system health monitoring, depending on configuration. Conformal coating is offered as an option to increase environmental resistance. Power requirements vary with configuration and are defined based on the intended deployment environment.

Compatible development and breakout modules, including rear transition modules and rugged system platforms, are available from X-ES to support integration and testing.

More information on the XChange3031 >>

Posted by William Mackenzie Will is a Content Specialist at Unmanned Systems Technology. Joining in 2024 with a background in professional copywriting and content marketing, Will covers the latest advancements in robotics, sensors, and unmanned systems across land, air, and maritime domains. His writing brings a clear, informed perspective to emerging technologies and their applications in both commercial and defense markets. Connect
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